Carer abused special needs man at care centre

A worker in a Doncaster care facility for young people with autism has been convicted of abusing a man he was supposed to be looking after.

Callum Smith, of West End Lane, Rossington, appeared at Doncaster Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday, June 18, and was found guilty of the charge of ill treatment of a 28-year-old man he was caring for at Hesley Village in Rossington.

The 24-year-old was convicted of ill treatment of a person lacking capacity under section 44 of the Mental Capacity Act, while he was employed at the residential centre for people with autism and other complex needs.

On Friday, 28 September, 28 2012, Smith was seen by a colleague to punch the man four times in the head.

The man did not suffer any injuries and Smith was arrested.

DC Nichole Russell investigating said: “Smith abused the trust and authority he was given and took complete advantage of his position, treating the man he was caring for with no respect and no consideration for the detrimental effects of his actions.

“I am pleased he has been found guilty and would always encourage people to report any incidents of this nature to the police.”

Chris McSharry, chief executive of the Hesley Group, said: “We are extremely sorry that this has happened to someone using our service. We take any allegations of abuse and unprofessional conduct extremely seriously and operate a zero tolerance policy. We suspended Callum Smith immediately on the allegations being made and referred the matter to the Police and the local Adults Safeguarding Team. Smith was subsequently dismissed from employment with Hesley Group.

“The Hesley Group is committed to the safety of the people in our care. Smith, like all of our employees, was subject to rigorous pre-employment checks, including a Disclosure and Barring Service assessment, in accordance with our regulatory requirements. We have internal procedures in place that are reviewed regularly to ensure our staff have the right values and approach to maintain high standards of care.”

South Yorkshire Police and Crime Commissioner, Shaun Wright said: “This is disgraceful treatment of someone who was under this man’s care and cannot be tolerated. I’m only glad that the victim wasn’t seriously injured in the assault. Anyone witnessing a similar thing happening should always contact the police immediately.”